Massachusetts inmate tests positive for COVID-19

BRIIDGEWATER — Staff at the Massachusetts Treatment Center (MTC) are taking heightened precautions after an inmate tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. The inmate and his roommate, who has not shown symptoms, have been quarantined from each other and the MTC’s general population since 3/19/20.

The Massachusetts Department of Correction received the inmate’s test results on 3/20/20. All MADOC facilities, including the MTC, have been following DPH guidance to minimize the risk of introduction or transmission of the virus. Staff at the MTC have been utilizing personal protective equipment at all times when interacting with a quarantined inmate, such as when he is receiving food and receiving full medical care to reduce the risk of transmission.

The MTC is a medium-security facility separately housing criminally sentenced inmates identified as sex offenders and those who have been civilly committed as sexually dangerous persons. The inmate is an adult male serving a life sentence. Correction officers who work at the MTC do not report to work at any other facility.

There are no other positive COVID-19 cases reported within the inmate population at this time. MADOC continue to closely monitor developments associated with the spread of this virus along with our contracted inmate medical provider, Wellpath. MADOC staff are working with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) to prevent further introduction into MADOC facilities, and to quickly engage, contain, and treat any outbreak, according to the Department of Corrections.

A list of individuals who have been in direct contact with the individual who tested positive has been forwarded to DPH for notification.